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23 Now there was leaning on Jesus’ bosom one of His disciples, whom Jesus loved. — John 13:23 NKJV

In a society where “real” men don’t show this kind of affection for each other, this verse can cause some confusion. We must remember that this occurred in a time and place where men greeted each other with a holy kiss. So, get past the first impression and see the picture as it is really meant to be seen. See it as pure love with no lust involved. Try to put yourself in John’s place and feel the comfort and joy that he must have felt right then. Remember the times in your early years when you would be frightened about something and your Dad would pick you and hold you against his bosom. Do you remember the safety, and in a few minutes, the peace and the joy that you felt? Or maybe, you were ailing and your Mom would hold you against her bosom to comfort you. Isn’t wonderful that we can still have that kind of relationship with Jesus? We can run to Him, sit in His lap and He will wrap His arms around us to comfort and cheer us. Get this picture in your mind and focus on it until it becomes real to you. Then, in those trying, difficult, scary times, run to Him with your arms wide open and simply say “Abba”, I love you! He will be thrilled and you will have a time of peace that passes understanding and joy that overflows your heart.

15 For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, “Abba, Father.” — Romans 8:15 NKJV